Zang Tang - NEW SONGS UP NOW! on MySpace Music - Free Streaming MP3s, Pictures & Music Downloads

Zang Tang, formally known as Funkosphere, began in 2008 in the basement of Jack Baldus’ house, with Jody Hoare and Jack jamming to some funk beats after talking about playing together for years. Eventually Latin percussionist Tom Haunton joined the jam and added a whole new lively acid jazz sound to the music. The next addition to the project was Clyde Hoare with acoustic guitar and vocals. With the individuals of the band coming together from different influential musical backgrounds, Tom with acid jazz and latin grooves, Clyde with folk and progressive rock melodies, and Jack with jazz-funk chords, this fusion of sounds brought together a lively exciting and original sound, which just had to be performed live. The first gig was June ‘08, in Ross–on-Wye, and after filling out a hall with friends and music lovers, some very positive feedback was received and a warm welcome given into the local live music scene. A successful summer of live gigs went ensued, including the highlight of headlining Jamstand Festival 2008. In September ‘08, the group rearranged itself, and focused on a more acid Jazz sound fused with latin and funk grooves, and changed its name from ‘Funkosphere’ to ‘Zang Tang’. The group performed several gigs up until New Years Eve, playing mainly improvised music on the spot, which was exciting from the bands point of view and achieved wide acclaim from audiences. However, a vital ingredient was clearly missing from the band, hence the replacing of the original bass player with the latest member, Mark Brown on bass.

Jack Baldus is 21 years old from Ross-on-Wye, and has studied jazz and pop, at Leeds College of Music, and has sessioned for many successful acts in the past and present. Jody Hoare is 32 years old from Ross-on-Wye, and has performed in jazz, funk, and fusion bands for the past 10 years; most noted ‘The Pootic’. He also performs as a well-respected DJ under the name of DJ ODI.

Clyde Hoare is 39 years of age, and is originally from Ross-on-Wye. A fantastic craftsman and musician who has played in folk/Rock/Progressive/Acoustic bands for the best part of 20 years. Both Clyde and Jody share a substantial influence in their music from their father; the legendary Geoff Hoare, an accomplished trombone player. Tom Haunton is a well-renowned acid jazz veteran, originating from Ross-on-Wye, and is 33 years of age, who as well as Jody, performs as DJ T Tucker.

Mark Brown, from Cirencester, has played in many jazz, funk and even rock outfits in the county for the last 15 years and has a wealth of live and studio experience.

The band is currently working hard building up a reputation as an energetic and highly entertaining live act so look out for funky grooves and latin breaks infused with harsh clavichord rhythms near you in 2009!

Jack:

Nord Electro 2 keyboard
Nord Lead 3 synthesiser
Korg Kaoss Pad 3
Boss DD-6
Dan Electro Free Speech
Cry Baby

Mark:

GB Guitars 4 string Rumour bass
KSD 5 string jazz bass
Aguilar AG500SC amp head
Epifani 2x10 cab
EBS pedals

Jody:

Pearl Masters Custom Studio kit with a JR Robinson signature snare Zildjian A custom cymbals (crashes and ride) and Sabian AAX fusion Hi Hats plus a Yamaha DTXplorer module

Clyde:

Samick Semi Acoustic Jazz
Fender Acoustic
Boss Chorus
Boss Loop Station
Boss Auto Wah
Boss DD-6

Tom:

Toca Congas
Meinl Timbales
Meinl Bongos
Korg Kaossilator